There are as many reasons for why people blog as there are blogs, it seems. For most, however it is a hobby that allows them to share their life with the world, and express themselves through writing, while networking and connecting with new friends. For hobby bloggers there are many platforms to choose from, most of which are completely free to use. The most popular platform for hobby bloggers is without a doubt blogger, which is hosted and maintained by Google. Blogger allows its user a lot of options to customize their blog with different templates, layouts, and colors.

If you are a aspiring blogger you may ask, how do I start a blog? To get started with blogger you will need to set up a free account, this involves filling out a short form with information such as your name, address, and main e-mail address. Once you have registered, you will be guided through a setup wizard that will ask you questions concerning the layout and design of your blog. During this process you will have the opportunity to choose the color of the text, links, title, and background.

In conclusion, there are many ways for a new blogger to get started. The blogging platform that you choose to use will depend on the reason that you are blogging. Regardless of your reason for blogging, hopefully this article has answered your initial question, how do I start a blog?

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The return of spring herolds the return of the migrating bird, this miagration is a time of peculiar advantage to the bird-lover. It seems good to welcome back our friends, and this return give a special smile of pleasure. This feeling is the more enhanced because of the scarcity of birds during the winter.

There is, too, a certain delight in being with in a  wooded area  at the time when Nature is awakening, when the sun beams warm again, causing the spring aroma to arise from the fruitful earth and the early flowers modestly to open to our view. It might seem as though there were beauty enough to call people forth from their shells of sedentary employment even apart from the birds. Yet these will furnish an immediate motive without which many a ramble would be lost or postponed.

It is a fascinating no less than a healthful pursuit to "keep tab" on the arrival of the spring birds. As though realizing that it is important to make a good impression, they come arrayed in their very best garments, all of these new, and some a wedding outfit.

Everything considered, the birds are remarkably regular in their return each spring according to calendar. Each species has a certain normal time of arrival, and in most years the dates will not vary much. It seems wonderful that, with only instinct to guide, they can sense the time as nearly as they do. There is, however, some variation, depending upon the weather. Unseasonable warmth will bring the birds on prematurely, and continued cold will keep them back, or at least the majority of them. Yet even then there are often individuals in whom the instinct is so strong that they brave cold and storm and come on time. The problem of the origin and cause of migration still remains shrouded in mystery, which adds all the more interest to observation of it. It will be largely through gathering of data by many observers everywhere that we can hope to come to a better understanding of it.

The watching of the migration will give special pleasure if several observers in a locality work together. It is really very exciting to try to be the first to record the arrival of the various species. One has a sense of achievement in being the first to see and report the new appearance, especially if it is some very early or unusual one.

In the case of those who expect to go afield at this time with considerable frequency and regularity, I suggest that they write to the Bureau of Biological Survey, Washington, and secure data-blanks for recording migration. There is a column on the left where the names of species arc to be put down in the order in which they are seen. In other spaces opposite can be given the dates when first seen, when at greatest abundance, and, in the case of those proceeding further, when last noted. This will not only furnish neat and convenient stationery for one’s own records, but the copy returned to the Department at the end of the season will be a real contribution to science.

Quite a number of our hardier familiar land-birds winter in the Southern States and return to their familiar nesting-haunts comparatively early in the spring. Of some of these a few individuals are occasionally seen in Northern States in winter. Such species are the robin, bluebird, song sparrow, red-winged and crow blackbirds, meadowlark, kingfisher, cedar-bird, purple finch, woodcock, and various others. But the great majority pass on to Central or South America. On the return migration in spring, some come by the all-land route, through Mexico and Texas, but more of those that reach the eastern districts prefer to fly across the Gulf of Mexico. Of these, some take the easier route through Cuba or other islands of the West Indies to southern Florida. This route affords convenient resting-places to break the long journey.

Birdwatching and Spring Bird Migrations : Singaporeblawg.com

Once, I was on an early morning spring migration bird walk in western Pennsylvania. The area was an ideal mix of open fields, nearby streams, ponds and forested woodlands. The weather was damp and foggy. 

Shook Foil: Spring Bird Migration

Spring Bird Migration. Check out this map of migrating birds. I guess radar reflects birds and clouds within a 30 mile radius, so the dots represent birds within a locality of a radar station. This is large scale Spring migration. 

The Wings of Spring

One of the tell-tale signs of spring’s approach is the reappearance of numerous bird species that have returned from their winter homes. Perhaps you have noticed an increase in bird song filling the air.

Alaska Bird Observatory » Arctic Warbler Spring 2009

Raven was concerned about this… The above is an excerpt of an article in the Spring 2009 Arctic Warbler written by ABO Education Coordinator Tricia Blake. ABO Logo, Alaska Bird Observatory, Fairbanks, Alaska.

Doing Some Bird Watching During Spring Migration

Doing Some Bird Watching During Spring Migration - Free articles - Get quality free articles for your web site or submit articles to promote them.   

Bird migration & climate change

If you’re interested in more information, on either bird migration or climate change, the Library has resources for you! Search the Library Catalog to find titles such as Birds of two worlds: the ecology and evolution of migration

Author: Liza Othman

More information about studying birds http://StudyBirds.FunHowToBooks.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Liza_Othman

Technorati Tags: bird migration, bird spring migration, birds in spring, Migrating Birds, migration birds, spring birds in a tree

Trees are not just a key to the natural ecosystem, they are an essential part of our life experience.  For most birds too, from majestic individual trees that have historic significance or that are simply beautiful, to a quiet grove of greenery we seek for solitude, trees enrich our life experience simply by just being there. Trees are the longest-lived and largest plant form on Earth and throughout recorded history trees have been acknowledged as symbols of power, wisdom, fertility and life.

Trees are also symbols of immortality, being able to live to considerable age. Pando, a Trembling Aspen located in Utah, USA is considered the world’s oldest living tree. Pando is estimated to be over 800,000 years old. Pando is a clonal colony of a single male Quaking Aspen. This massive tree’s root system covers 107 acres and is estimated to weigh in excess of 6,000 tons which makes it the heaviest known living organism in the world.

Throughout the world many different species of trees live amazingly long lives.  The verified oldest measured ages are:

Norway Spruce (Picea abies) 9,550 years
Baobab (Digitata Adansonia) 6,600 years
Great Basin Bristlecone Pine (Pinus longaeva) 4,844 years
Alerce (Fitzroya cupressoides) 3,622 years
Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) 3,266 years
Huon-Pine (Largarostrobos franklinii) 2,500 years
Rocky Mountain Bristlecone Pine (Pinus aristata) 2,435 years

Because of their potential for longevity, trees are frequently planted as living memorials. We become attached to trees that we or those we love have planted and tended.

Trees add beauty and grace to any locale. Blossoms in the spring, verdant summer foliage and breath-taking colors in the fall; trees mark the seasons as they enhance the beauty of world. They make life more pleasurable, peaceful and relaxing. The majesty, endurance and strength of trees imparts a cathedral-like quality as they help us to experience a primal connection with the earth and our most deeply held cultural and spiritual values.

The tree has always been a cultural symbol. The tree is often used to represent nature or the environment itself. In South America, a tribe of Indians hold the belief that the trees of the forest hold up the sky. According to ancient tribal legends, the downfall of the trees will precipitate the destruction of Mother Earth.

Since ancient times, cultures around the world have honored trees with reverence and respect. Cultures in Australia and Asia regard the trees as mythical ancestors. Trees were often worshipped as the living embodiment of their gods and were believed to have holy medicinal applications and miraculous healing qualities for the body, mind and spirit.

The Druids of Europe were particularly influenced by trees and believed that trees possessed great mysterious powers. The Ancient Greeks are also known to have had a highly developed respect for the nobility and power of trees. Painting and pottery from the period display images of gratification and reverence. The Greek culture held the Bay Tree in especially high esteem as the tree was dedicated to their God Apollo and his young son Aesculapius and was held in sacred honor. Aesculapius was the God of Medicine and thus the Bay Tree was believed to have healing power and was used in many medical potions.

Built in the mid-12th century as a tribute to the Mother of the King, Ta Prohm Temple in southern Cambodia is the undisputed capital of the Kingdom of the Trees. The mystical and enchanting jungle temple’s beauty is explored with delight and left with deep regret. It remains virtually untouched by archaeologists except for the clearing of a narrow pathway for visitors. Because of its natural and pristine state, one can experience the wonder and joy of the early explorers when they discovered these amazing ancient monuments in the middle of the nineteenth century.

Wreathed in silvery mist and shrouded by dense jungle, the temple of Ta Prohm is ethereal in every aspect and conjures up a romantic mysterious aura. Banyan, kapok and fig trees spread their gigantic sprawling roots over giant stones, probing walls and tearing terraces apart as their branches and leaves intertwine to form a lush sheltering canopy over the structures. Trunks of these noble trees twist amongst stone pillars and over cobbled walls. The strange, haunting charm of the temple trees entwines itself about you as you go, as inescapably as the roots have wound themselves about the walls and towers. When visiting the awe-inspiring Kingdom of the Trees one quickly becomes aware of how powerfully present and fully alive trees are and one can not escape the all-encompassing connection trees provide in the intricate and fragile web of existence.

More than 8,000 tree species, 10 percent of the world’s total, are threatened with extinction. Destruction of forests and woodlands and unsustainable logging of valuable timbers stands are causing the devastation of many important species. Clearing and burning of our forests leads to increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide, a significant contributor to global warming.

It saddens the soul to realize that the majority of the citizens of the Earth are so accustomed to seeing trees that they take them for granted, forgetting that these noble entities are fundamental to our very existence. Trees act as the living lungs of the planet, sequestering carbon dioxide and returning to us precious, life-giving oxygen.

Trees have numerous aesthetic and economic benefits beyond their important role in carbon sequestration and oxygen production. Trees offer shelter, filter water, cleanse the air of pollution, moderate the climate, help prevent soil erosion as well as providing wildlife habitat, scenic beauty and a plethora of items we use daily. We rely on trees for paper products, building materials, fuel, food, medicine and more.

Benefits of Tree Planting

We all desire abundant forests for our children and grandchildren. Trees maintain sustainable soils and control erosion. By retaining soil in place with their root mass, deflecting wind-driven rain with their canopies and contributing nutrients with their leaves, trees are crucial to sustaining and improving the earth’s ecosystem.

Trees cleanse our air and water. From auto and factory emissions and ozone in industrialized areas to fertilizer and pesticide runoff from rural farms, trees absorb toxic pollutants as they recharge ground water and sustain streamflow. Trees also combat global warming. As trees grow they remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, the major contributor to global warming.

We depend on trees for their nutritional bounty. Fruit 1ff8 and nutmeats are a staple of diets around the world. A fruit tree can live for more than forty years and produce more than 10,000 pounds of fruit. A tree truly gives life. Apples are one of the most popular fruit tree choices and a mature apple tree can produce up to 500 apples in a season. Consider planting pear, plum, cherry, apricot, orange, lime, lemon or banana trees. Research what will grow well in your local area. Plant and enjoy an organic harvest grown in harmony with nature. Nothing tastes sweeter!

Trees are used world-wide as landscape amenities to soften the harsh outline of buildings, create green spaces in communities, provide privacy, screen unsightly views and dampen noise pollution as well as beautify the property. Shrubs and trees, properly planted and tended on a residential or commercial lot can significantly increase real estate value. Mature, healthy trees add an average of 20 per cent to a property’s value.

Planting trees saves energy. Trees planted strategically around our homes will decrease cooling costs in summer and provide a windbreak against the cold winds of winter, thus saving on heating expenses. Depending on species and maturity, the cooling shade of trees can reduce home energy consumption by up to 20 percent. Air temperature in the vicinity of trees is cooler than that away from trees. The larger the tree, the greater the cooling effect. Tree planting in urban areas moderates the heat-island effect caused by concrete paving and heat absorbing buildings.

Planting trees feels good! It is immensely satisfying to plant a tree; you are happy in the knowledge that this gift to the earth will bring joy, shelter and sustenance to our children, grandchildren and countless future generations.

Environmental Stewardship

Problems caused by massive and increasing levels of deforestation worldwide has raised awareness of environmental issues and the crucial role forests play. Climate change is the largest environmental issue the world faces this century. People of all ages throughout the world agree that we must act. However sometimes the task seems overwhelming, the challenge too global for any one person to make a difference. Wrong! Every individual act has rewards and consequences.

Celebrate Life! Plant A Tree!

Plant trees in your yard, volunteer with civic and community tree restoration efforts and contribute to non-profit organizations implementing reforestation.

Consider green gifting. Are you looking for the perfect gift for a birthday, wedding, anniversary celebrations or any milestone occasion? Are you looking for a meaningful way to mark the birth of your child or grandchild? Would you like a special way to memorialize a loved one who has passed away, a unique way to honor a veteran? Giving the gift of a celebration or memorial tree is a unique gift that will last a lifetime.

There is strength in numbers. Together we can make a difference. Take action by living a green lifestyle to reduce your carbon output, educate children about protecting the planet we all share and be part of the solution simply by planting more trees.

Advanced Fundamentals of Tree Conservation on Development

Georgia Urban Forest Council presents Advanced Fundamentals of Tree Conservation on Development Sites — Wednesday, April 08, 2009 — Savannah, GA.  

Papua New Guinea Establishes First Ever Conservation Area, Tree 

Tags: biodiversity, Conservation, conservation area, conservation international, deforestation, development, endangered species, environment, global climate, iucn, Papua New Guinea, Saruwaged Mountains, tree kangaroos, woodland park zoo.

Effects of climate change in Missouri take root

We need to act now to stem the causes, minimize its severity and take science-based conservation action to help species and habitats weather the changes we can’t avoid." The Arbor Day Foundation suggests planting a tree to help counter

Successful water conservation & tree planting 

In an article in The Hindu, Febr. 12, 2009 about a visit to Kongathiraiyanpatti village (40 km from Pudukottai in Tamil Nadu, India), MJ Prabu reports on how water conservation along with tree planting helped farmers rebuild their lives.

Forest conservation: Growing money from trees - ClimateChangeCorp.com

The UN-backed proposal does not enjoy a monopoly on market-based forest conservation, however. Market-based schemes to save the world’s trees are proliferating. Under the UN’s existing Clean Development Mechanism.

Author: Marlene Affeld

Nandu Green is a lifestyle portal, offering high-quality, unique, intriguing and innovative merchandise from around the globe.

Marlene Affeld’s passion for the environment and all things natural inspire her to write informative and insightful articles to assist others in living a Green Lifestyle. For more Green Living info from Marlene visit Nandu Green at http://nandugreen.com/index.php/Green-Lifestyle/Sustainability.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marlene_Affeld

Technorati Tags: save the rainforest, Save Trees, tree conservation, tree planting

 Bird photography can happen anywhere on our beautiful globe. The not so nice thing is that birds are small or shy, and you need to be able to get close enough with your equipment. In this article, we will be looking at the ideal equipment for bird photography. 

This lovely picture by Heather Green

Camera body

We live in the world of digital photography, and therefore we will only be discussing digital camera bodies. I am also a really big Canon fan, so I will talk Canon, and you can translate it to other manufacturers if you need to.

You will need a decent camera body that allows you to set continuous focus while shooting images in the raw image quality. The cheapest body allowing you to do this is the Canon EOS 20D. However, it is not really cheap. The reason for it being not too affordable is that it is actually a very good all-round camera body for the serious amateur or professional. You cannot go wrong with this body…

Lenses

A lot of amateurs think that a really decent long zoom lens will solve all their problems. I have been there guys, and it does not. Do what the professionals do and get that long prime lens.

I used the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM for a long time, and my results were decent but not good enough. It is not the sharpest lens. If you need to use a zoom rather stick with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM. It is pin sharp.

I now use the Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM and it is the best thing that could have happened to my photography. It is very sharp and very fast at the same time. A bit heavy at times, but I need the exercise! With this lens I mostly use a Canon Extender 1.4x II for an effective focal length of 1 120 mm with autofocus! That is plenty for any bird, and I cannot imagine getting a lot of good bird photographs with anything shorter.

By the way, do not use manual focus. Today’s cameras were not built for manual focus as the viewfinders are small and do not allow you to see enough detail to manual focus effectively.

Photographing flying birds

Okay, now you have all the equipment and you are heading into the field to get that award winning photograph of a flying bird. You have to have enough light entering your lens for a fast enough shutter speed to freeze the action. You also want your camera to focus where the bird is in that split second you are going to give it before firing away. So what do you do…?

Set you camera to an ISO speed of 400. In sunshine this ought to be fast enough. The reason for not using ISO 100 or 200 is that you are photographing action and you do not want anything to blur.

You must also make sure your lens is open at its maximum aperture. A Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM lens coupled with a Canon Extender 1.4x II gives a maximum aperture of 5.6, and this is what I use when photographing flying birds.

Also ensure your camera is set to continuous autofocus. Canon calls this setting AI Servo focus. This is crucial and the main reason why I am not a fan of camera bodies like the Canon EOS 350D. They do not allow you to use this focus with raw images… Thanks Canon!

I also set my image stabilizer to Mode 2 for photographing moving subjects, to avoid it actually working against that sharp photo rather than for it…

Now all that is left is moving that heavy lens around while the birds are flying past. Happy shooting!

Conclusion

We professionals have a way of sometime making it sound like you do not need good equipment to be a good photographer. That is utter non-sense. Get yourself decent equipment and you will see why the pros get the shot and you don’t.

The other thing that makes the professionals so much better than the average amateur is patience. Go and sit somewhere where there are birds, forcing yourself not to move for three hours, and you will get the magic shots. Your patience will be rewarded.

What Type of Photography Do You Do?

I belong to Nikonians and they ask the same stupid question. My photography interest is so varied that I cannot pigeon hole myself into any category. I have shot landscapes, architecture, birds, animals, macro’s, flowers, still life.

camara for birding? in need of advice

i do not know anything about bird photograghy, i usually use a compact digital camara for taking everyday pictures, which are usually not of birds. i would like to buy a camara and a good lens to use without tripoid.

Treading on Moss: Frosty Fog

Who can resist a foggy morning in the garden. Add on top of that, frost, and you get MAGIC. Ever fef ything is traced in white. Hoar-Frost. Posted by Mon Cheri at 10:37 AM. Labels: Garden Photograghy … David Copperfield - Dickens; Wives and Daughters - Elizabeth Gaskel; To Kill A Mocking Bird - Harper Lee; At The Back Of The North Wind - George MacDonald; Ben Hur -Lew Wallace; Freckles - Gene Stratton-Porter; Perelandra -C.S.Lewis; The Lively Lady - Kenneth Roberts

Help - Wildlife and Environment Forums

I am an absolute beginner in the photograghy stakes but am keen to learn as much as possible, I would like to take photos of birds and animals and wildflowers, can anyone recommend a good starter camera which will be easy to use.

About The Author

Dries Cronje is a freelance nature photographer operating in Southern Africa. He has a passion for teaching and has dedicated one of his sites, http://www.africa-nature-photography.com, purely to helping his fellow nature photographers.

Technorati Tags: bird photographs, Bird Photography, birds photography, wild bird photography

Bird Baths Online

The history of bird baths remains largely unknown, but it is rumored they were invented in Greece many years ago. Regardless of where they came from, it is fact that they have become an essential structure of backyards all across the world. This is one of the great things about them: almost anyone can have one. If you have been thinking about purchasing one, but don’t know where to start, the process is actually very easy.

Birdbaths What You Need to Know

Unlike feeders, bird baths can bring all types of birds up close and personal. This is because many birds are not seed-eaters, so they are not drawn to bird feeders. All birds however, need a safe haven to clean themselves, drink, and socialize with other birds. This is where the bath comes in! Offering fresh, clean water to birds is the number one method you can use to bring them into your yard. Beyond that, here are a few other necessities that will bring birds over.

• Shallow Water. The water can’t be too deep in a bird bath. In fact, you don’t want it to be any deeper than three inches in the center, and it should be shallower at the edges. Just like people, birds prefer to ease their way into the water!
• Moving Water. Birds are in awe of gurgles, splashes, and drips. To attract many different types of birds, it should have some type of a drip or gurgle to entice them to stay awhile. This isn’t necessary, as it isn’t a safety issue, but if you’re purchasing a new one, consider one that comes with a mechanism to move the water around. You can also run a hose that trickles into the bird bath, or purchase a separate fountain designed for styles.

• Bumpy Bottoms. If it has a smooth, slippery bottom, birds will be unlikely to hang around. They do not like losing their footing any better than you do! If your birdbath has a slick bottom, just pick up a few nonskid stickers. You can apply them to the bottom to give your birds a bit more stability.
• Placement is Essential. Your birdbath should be placed in an area of your yard that is away from shrubbery, so cats can’t lie in wait. Also, if you have a spot with branches from a tree hanging down, putting the  bath there will give your birds a place to jump to. They will love this, and these branches offer a quick-escape route should they need one.

What Type of Bird Bath is Best?

There are several different types of birdbaths on the market today, so you are sure to find at least one that you love. With that in mind, there really is not a ‘better’ type of bird bath. Think about your likes, your yard, and what appeals to you. Some of the types of birdbaths to consider are:

• Pedestal Birdbath. A pedestal bath is the most common type on the market today. They’re also thought of the most traditional of all baths.  These baths have the bath raised on a pedestal, and the designs vary from the most modest to the most elaborate. Another plus is that they are available in all shapes and sizes.
• Heated Bird Bath,  are ones that ensures the water in the bath never freezes. If you live in a climate that is mild all year, you probably don’t need to consider purchasing a heated one. On the other hand, if you live in a locale that has cold winters, you will be doing your birds a favor by furnishing them with water they can use twelve months of the year.
• Fountain Bird Bath. As mentioned earlier, birds are drawn to the sound of moving water.  These are especially appealing because of the relaxing sound they enhance your yard with. Also, it is so much fun to watch birds play in the running water. They can be powered by electricity or by the sun as explained below.
• Solar heated Bird bath. Accomplish the same goal as the fountain bird baths do, except that instead of being powered by electricity, the solar heated ones are powered by the sun. These are a terrific way to give your birds a fun place to splash and bathe, in colder weather with no electricity.

Care and Maintenance of Birdbaths

While a bird bath requires regular care and maintenance, it is fairly simple to keep your them in top condition. Depending on the type you own, it might be as simple as washing and refilling the it on a regular basis. Some types, i.e. concrete, have the tendency to become mossy, which means slippery surfaces for little bird feet. These will require regular scrubbing to remove the moss. Also, fresh water is critical to birds’ health, so keeping up on it is essential.

In conclusion, bird baths are an amazing way to bring the natural and breathtaking beauty of birds to your yard. With so many models and types available today, there is sure to be one that will match your likes and your yard perfectly.

Solar Powered Bird Baths Attract Wild Birds Throughout The Year

If you want to attract wild birds to your garden all through the year you should use a solar bird bath Birds will be attracted to water in your garden as much as the food you provide, not only to drink but also to bathe.

Bird Baths Make Great Garden Water Features | Backyard Gardening Tips

Feeders bird baths are not only a great way of attracting wild birds and enjoying nature, they also enhance the beauty your landscape by adding one

Bird Gardens - Wildlife Gardening for Birds and Other Ways to Help …

Putting seed in your yard will attract only seed-eating birds, but most birds are attracted to bird baths. Birds drink and bathe in shallow water, sometimes more than once a day. For the thrill of seeing a baby robin taking its first 

Garden Muse: For the birds … no really!

I too have caught the bird bug…I have added in some bird baths, a few feeders and am workin on the houses. I initially started this for Kiki’s entertainment. The birds haven’t shown up to the feeders, but they are all in the yard.

Bird Bath Ice Melter Keeps Feathered Friends Happy

Not all birds go south for the winter, and you can keep them coming to your yard with a bird feeder and a . But, wait, if your bird bath is covered with snow and ice, it won’t make a very appealing jacuzzi for your feathered

Add a Fountain Bird Bath to Your Garden and Attract More Backyard 

Add a Fountain Bird Bath to Your Garden and Attract More Backyard Birds - Free Reprint Article Written By Lee Dobbins.  

Considerations When Choosing a Bird Bath

When clean, fresh water is hard to find the wild birds will love to come to a garden birdbath to bath and drink. Fledglings will often be brought to a bird bath by their parents and you can watch in delight as the baby birds

Tips For Backyard Bird Baths | The Garden Site

A bird bath is one of the easiest ways to attract birds to your garden. Not only will you attract greater numbers of birds if you install a garden bird bath, you’ll also attract a greater variety of species.

Dirty water

It’s complete with a springboard and towel rails, while at the other end of the scale are the concrete bird-baths containing more swamp life than water. A quick swish with a hose is all it takes people, is that too much to ask?

Author: Becca Reese

Technorati Tags: bird baths online, copper, pedestal, solar heated bird bath

 Bird songs whilst walking in any slightly wooded area, even a street with a few trees lining it, there will be bird song, they are often quite loud during the morning hours, but unless you have a trained ear you may not recognize the which kind sings what song. birders know that the fitter the bird the better quality of the song, birds songs are the speech of avians, and all animals in ear shot can understand what a bird is trying to say simply through the pitch of its song.  Humans need to train our selves in order to have the ability to understand birds.

Training our ears to hear all bird that surrounds us hearing  more birds we see is a given. Some birds prefer to be high upon a tree’s top, and we may never see them, but we will certainly hear them by listening carefully.  As our hearing becomes more acute, we can learn to distinguish that birds sound differently when they are in danger, when they become alarmed, or when something happens that is out of the ordinary. For the attentive birder, taking heed of these alarm callers can save us from danger as well.

Birds use these alarm calls to warn other birds of predators, the domestic chicken has distinct alarm calls for aerial and ground predators. Individual birds also seem to be able to identify each other through their calls, mothers and chicks, partners or members of a flock.

Many birds have unique songs that they sing under special circumstances such as in flight, aggression, dawn and at nightfall. studies show that brighter bird species had more parasites, as did those that sang more musically complex songs. In another study, researchers discovered that the type of bug immunity had an influence on birdsong the number of song bouts was higher in birds with better general immunity that, and the length of the bouts greater in birds with better antibody immunity.

Many bird songs play an important role in the mating ritual,
lots of birds engage in duet calls, where the Male’s call is answered antiphonally by the female in a call and response, but the significance of this is unclear. Some birdsong, like those of starlings and mockingbirds, creatively incorporate arbitrary musical bits learned during their individual lifetime. In most species though the basic song is the same for all members of the species, young birds learn some details of their songs from their fathers, which get passed
down through generations.

Mnemonics, or the practice of using words to remember phrases in bird songs, helps greatly in getting use to the different bird songs, some birds that say their own names, like the Carolina Chickadee, who says "chick-a-dee-dee-dee-dee-dee," the Eastern Phoebe with its phoebe call, the bob-white and the Eastern Wood Pewee, who cries out "pee-a-wee."  Night the Whippoorwill and the Chuck Will’s Widow calling out their names too near water or in fields, another bird announces it’s presence with shrill cries of "killdeer! killdeer!" saying it’s name quite distinctly.

There are other birds don’t call out with their names, but have song birds that sound remarkably like phrases in English, Miss B.Potter emulated this many times in her stories, do you remember "little bit of bread and no cheese?" In grasslands, you’ll hear and
recognize the Eastern Meadowlark’s "spring-of-the-year".  Many Woodland birds who ’speak English’, include the Tufted Titmouse, calling to "peter-peter-peter," the meowing Gray Catbird, the Eastern Towhee telling everyone to "Drink your tea!" and the Carolina Wren, singing it’s loudly with "teakettle, teakettle, teakettle".

Flycatchers are another thing they all look similar to each other. The best way to distinguish one from another is by the song. The Great-crested Flycatcher says, "Wheep!", the Arcadian says "pizza, pizza," the Alder cries "Fitzbuh," and the Olive-sided begs, "Quick! Three beers."

Owl calls are easy to learn. The typical hooting call belongs to the Great Horned Owl. The Eastern Screech Owl whinnies like a horse, and the Barred Owl continually questions, ‘Who cooks for you? Who cooks
for you-all?’

If at all possible it is a grand thing to be able to observe the song birds behaviour whilst they sing, they will do this whilst lining up for there turn at the bird feeder, some birds wait turns within their species (Chick-a-Dee’s) and communicated whilst doing so. American Robins appeared particularly congenial to one another, chattering back and forth, attending this fine buffet and social occasion.

Birds are wondrous creatures enjoying them every where, now if you have trouble hearing these wounderous songs perhaps you could invest in a niffty song bird hearing aid, they bring nature so close.

 More Birding by Ear Eastern and Central North America A Guide

 Just as the original BIRDING BY EAR audio introduces listeners to a unique method of learning and remembering bird songs, MORE BIRDING BY EAR employs these proven techniques for ninety-six.

Teachers: California Academy of Sciences

As far as season of the year, the greatest shear amount of bird song may be heard in the spring, when males of many species defend territories and/or try to attract mates. 

Downloading Bird song onto MP3 player - BirdForum

Downloading Bird song onto MP3 player Computers, Birding Software And The Internet.   

Developing a new Bird Song identification device 

So we thought we might be able to develop and build a cheap and portable bird-identification device (by processing the bird-songs) for bird-watchers and hopefully.

Technorati Tags: bird, go find bird song Id, identification, song bird hearing aids, songs

Bird Feeders quite  successfully attract birds to you, just about were ever you may hang them.  They bring birds equally well hanging on a balcony as they do hanging in a garden, there are many types of bird feeders specially adapted for a specific purpose, there is also the homemade bird feeder that will work equally well.

Suet Bird feeders are used for bringing woodpeckers, also they are considered winter feeders, bringing a little fat building for these tiny avians in the colder months.

Squirrel proof bird feeders like there name suggests, are designed to keep the cute critters from eating all the bird seed and scaring the birds away not forgetting those crafty racoons some bird feeders need to be racoon proof too.  Now no squirrel proof bird feeder is one hundred percent infallible, sometimes those little squirrels can interupt your bird watching taking over the feeder.

Window bird feeders are an excellent way of getting a close up view of our feathered friends, as they will be right up in front of your nose.  I recommend hanging a Sheer between you and the window, to avoid startling the flighty fellows.

Hummingbird feeders are specially designed for the narrow beaked nectar drinking birds, quite different that a seed holding feeder.  humming birds will be attracted to  the feeders in the summertime, depending on where you live as some areas do not allow bird feeders to be hung in the summer as they can attract more than birds.

There are other ways to bring the birds to you, bird houses are often a good enticement hung in a good spot, you can get to watch them hoping in and out of the bird house feeding their young.  A passing flocks of birds may stop at a bird bath to bath, or feast on the seeds falling from plants and grasses in your garden, what ever attractants you chose to use to bring the birds to the yard there will be many hours of enjoyment.

  Old Holborn: The bird feeder

I bought a bird feeder. I hung it on my back porch and filled it with seed. Within a week we had hundreds of birds taking advantage of the continuous flow of free and easily accessible

  A DC Birding Blog: Salmonella and Bird Food

 Cleaning feeders is something that ought to be done on a regular basis regardless of known disease outbreaks. Birdchick has been asking bird food companies whether any of their products .

  Feathered Friends: A Busy Day at the Bird Feeder

 our bird feeder. It was a very busy destination and everyone was moving very quickly for they might have sensed an impending snow storm. Among the visitors were the cardinals and bluejays,

Technorati Tags: homemade bird feeders, Humming Bird Feeders, window bird feeders

Hummingbirds the jewels of the bird world and are distinguishable by their ability to hover in mid air, by way of flapping their wings very rapidly.  The hummingbird can also fly vertically or backwards with unbelievable ease.  This allows the bird to remain stationary while it extracts nectar from flowers.  Hummingbird feeders must be easily accessible while allowing easy maintenance on the part of the enthusiast.   There are various imaginative designs that have hit the market.

A noteworthy aspect of Hummingbird feeder designs, such as the tube feeders, is that the birds find these plain or decorative bird feeders novel, and consequently, they do not immediately recognize them as food sources.  They rely on good old instinct, inquisitiveness and keen observation of other Hummingbirds.

These birds may prefer a certain feeder to another.  When changing from one feeder to another it is advisable to effect this transition gradually.  The two may be kept side by side, as emptying and filling is done on both feeders.

This allows for much required familiarity, it is possible that any feeder can be capable of attracting hummers.  The key is to lend focus to disassembly ease and cleaning, so that whatever feeder you choose, it can be easily cleaned and put back together and filled.  The feeders of basin-style design are thus far better when compared to those of the inverted-bottle type.

Moreover, they must be sturdy and easy to hang. There is also the contentious issue of whether to have perches on the feeder.  The argument that best supports it is the fact that these migratory birds have energy intensive lifestyles.  Perches go a long way in their conservation of calories. Hovering is far more exhausting than normal flight and they would only be glad to have a place to rest as they feed.

It would be of great help to have fresh syrup in great abundance. Even though it is common practice to buy a commercial mix, a simple sugar-water solution will do the trick.  After all, all they need is a source of fuel to carry out their daily tasks.

Strange as it may seem, given a choice, hummingbirds prefer sucrose and are averse to beet sugar. Anecdotal evidence shows that this species of birds can distinguish the taste between the two. It is however imperative to eliminate the use of honey in the Hummingbird feeders, it ferments very quickly when diluted in water, a solution that is potentially fatal to these birds. There has also been evidence that red dye, used to attract birds, causes tumors.  These reports are however unverified, yet it is definitely not worth the risk.

Cleaning the feeders is not a difficult process. Flushing the feeder with hot tap water, aided by a brush starts the process.  One should avoid soap at all costs since the birds loathe the taste.

Removal of black mould found under careful visual inspection follows. Unconsumed syrup should be poured. The entire process should be repeated after every three or four days.

Hummingbird feeders should be hung adjacent to or above a garden thriving with plants and flowers. Close to windows is another favored option although care should be taken to ensure that the evidence of the window is clear to the birds. This is aimed at minimizing risk of injury. Cutouts of wild birds, curtains and blinds are viable options. If all these aspects are observed, humankind and bird may enjoy a symbiotic relationship.

Bird Baths Make Great Garden Water Features | Backyard Gardening Tips

Bushy berry trees can serve the dual purpose of providing shelter and food. Many species will love the bird feeders and bird baths in your yard if they are assured of proper shelter and protection. Choosing the Right Hummingbird Feeder 

Bird Feeders Plans for Hummingbird Feeders

Different types of hummingbird feeder, from Duncraft bird feeders, to homemade bird feeders, as well as a hummingbird nectar recipe that works well.  

Anna’s Hummingbird on the Wing on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

I have been taking care of my neighbor’s home while they are on a cruise and one of my tasks is to refill her hummingbird feeders. The air around her back porch is filled with these little hummers. 

Snowy Day Birds

I once had a Ruby-throated Hummingbird land on the rim of my glasses while I was filling a feeder with nectar. I immediately froze, thinking that I might spook the little bird. The Hummingbird then flew to the cover of the feeder.

Managing Hummingbird Feeders Properly 

A noteworthy aspect of Hummingbird feeder designs, such as the tube feeders, is that the birds find these plain or decorative bird feeders novel, and consequently, they do not immediately recognize them as food sources.

Home Biology: Bird Feeder Myths

At our present house we do get the occasional stray cat in the yard, but that’s about it. Maybe we’ll try a hummingbird feeder this spring. In the meantime, here’s a list of bird feeder myths that I had always taken at face value

hummingbird feeder | Home & Garden Decor

Not all birds feed on seeds. The hummingbird feeds on nectar from flowers. To assure steady supply of the nectar a solution of sugar and water is provided to.   

By: MichaelSelvonArticleDirectory:http://www.articledashboard.comDid you enjoy this article ? Why not visit us and learn how to attract hundred of birds in record time with our bird feeders manifesto, for minimal expense and very little work.

Technorati Tags: Humming Bird Feeders, humming bird food, humming birds favortie foods, nectar

Wild Bird Feeder Habitate In The Backyard

Bird feeders can transform your backyard into a natural habitat for birds. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, or simply want to invite nature a little closer to your home, birdfeeders put down the welcome mat for our avian friends.

 Ground feeders are flat and open, have a screened bottom, and rest off the ground and should be situated ten feet from nearby trees or bushes so that birds can fly away from any predators. Ground feeders can be made squirrel proof by utilizing wire mesh over the bird feeder.

Squirrel Proof Bird feeders come in a few designs that are helpful for keeping the squirrels out of them, no squirrel proof feeder is 100% but the droll yankee comes close.

Window Bird feeders are designed to stick right on the window or window ledge or to hang right in front of it, giving the occupants the perfect up close view of the avian visiters.

Humming Bird feeders are designed to be filled with a form of necter that attracts them these also come in window style for that up close view, some humming bird feeders can be adapted with bigger holes for woodpeckers if you wish to attract them. be careful to avoid using red food coloring and honey. In addition, you should change the solution in the humming bird feeder weekly, or more often in hot weather.

Tube birdfeeders are cylindrical in shape and typically have openings that allow birds to access the seeds. They should be hung off the ground and, for maximum enjoyment, near a window so that family members can witness the wild birds that come to visit.

Suet and hopper bird feeders are typically shaped like houses. A suet bird feeder, made for wild birds that peck at the seed mixed into the suet, is usually hung, while a hopper bird feeder can either be hung or placed on a post for easy access by wild birds. A hopper bird feeder contains a large quantity of seed, which is released when the wild bird steps on the feeder trigger. Hopper birdfeeders attract both small and large birds, including the cardinal.

Thistle bird feeders are designed with very small holes, allowing only small-beaked finches to access the food. Thistle birdfeeders should be hung, and can be made squirrel proof.

It is certainly possible to make your own bird feeders, but there are several great birdfeeders available on the market, including those made by Droll Yankee, Opus, Woodllink, and Duncraft.

To get the most out of your bird watching experience, the Audubon Society suggests that you utilize several different types of bird feeders and that you place them at various heights and locations. In this way, you will attract a wide variety of wild birds. In addition, be sure that your efforts to create a backyard habitat don’t harm the birds you are trying to attract. Keep birdfeeders three feet away from windows to avoid collisions, and make sure to keep your cat indoors.

About The Author Chris Robertson is a published author of Majon International. To learn more about subjects like bird feeder please visit the web site at: http://www.wildbirdz.com.

Fat Balls Attract Birds To The Garden
Fat Balls Attract Birds To The Garden. In the last week we have had a couple of fat balls hanging in the garden near to the kitchen window so that we can see which birds are attracted to the fatballs. We have seen.

Oriole Bird Feeders - Attracting Orioles with an Oriole Feeder
In the Midwest the most common birds are Northern (Baltimore) Orioles and Orchard Orioles. They spend much of the summer in the northern states, but it’s important to have your feeder set up and ready to attract birds when they arrive.

Attract Winter Birds to Your Garden
Bird feeders attract insect-eating birds such as woodpeckers, chickadees and nuthatches, offer suet in the wintertime. Ground feeding birds like juncos, sparrows, towhees and mourning doves prefer cracked corn scattered .

Trying to get some wildlife into the garden
For example, I noticed that Starlings make a heck of a din when feeding which attracts the attention of other birds like Sparrows. I knew Starlings were around but never went into the back garden, so I put some obvious crumbs and seeds .

Backyard Humming Bird Garden
The best way to obverse the act of bird is to create humming garden in your backyard. Plan the right place for humming garden. There are several things which are necessary to attract humming birds. That factor that influence the humming

Fat Balls Attract Birds To The Garden

Fat Balls Attract Birds To The Garden. In the last week we have had a couple of fat balls hanging in the garden near to the kitchen window so that we can see which birds are attracted to the fatballs. We have seen: …   Read more…

Technorati Tags: Attracting Wild Birds, garden, Ground feeder Hummingbird, squirrel proof., wild bird feeders, wild bird seed feeders, yard

 Bird feeders, bird baths correct Selection  will transform your garden in to a hub of cheerful activity. All the chirping of the wild birds around the wild bird feeders and bird baths will be music to ears.  Bird watching will be a rewarding hobby for you if you pay attention to the needs of the birds and their security.

There are so many models available in the market that you may compromise security and the needs of the birds for beauty and design. Ideally, the bird baths and feeders should be a combination of both looks and utility.

The bird bath is an artificial puddle of water created for the birds to have bath and drink water.  A shallow basin is put on a pedestal and a depth of two inches is sufficient for the wild birds, as they do not submerge their entire body in the water, they just dip their wings and splash water all over the body.  Heated water in bird bath with solar bird baths help in frosty months.  The wild and migratory birds can get warm water to bathe in during the winter from your backyard. You can even add a suet bird feeder during the winter months.

  Bird feeders and bird baths should be cleaned regularly to maintain proper hygiene and to prevent the spread of any diseases.  Different species of birds carry different harmful viruses and bacteria, which could affect the health of other birds.

It is amazing how fast the feeders bird baths can get dirty, the bird bath can be scrubbed clean, however there are tablets containing naturally occurring bacteria and enzymes can be used to break down organic waste and keep the bird bath clean with less scrubbing, which will leave more time for birding.

  Bird feeders and bird baths placement is also of utmost importance when you are planning for bird watching in your own yard.  The bird bath should be placed near a big tree or bush so that when there is an imminent attack from birds of prey your winged guests can fly off and take shelter immediately.

Bushy berry trees can serve the dual purpose of providing shelter and food.  Many species will love the bird feeders and bird baths in your yard if they are assured of proper shelter and protection.

By: Michael Selvon Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

  Garden Guide and Blog

You can use bird feeders and bird baths to attract wild birds to your garden but if you also plant a bird garden you can increase the attractiveness of your garden enormously. 

  Attracting Wild Birds With A Bird Garden | Stuff Worth Knowing

You can use bird feeders and bird baths to attract wild birds to your garden but if you also plant a bird garden you can increase the attractiveness of your yard.

  Heated Bird Baths in the Winter

 I’ve found that most people store their bird baths in the winter months, but this can be the time of year when birds are most in need of water for drinking.

  Bird Baths

 I use a very shallow water dish instead of a bird bath, and refill with fresh water often. This seems to work just fine. If you have a deep bird bath, You could try using mosquito repellant.

Technorati Tags: Bird Baths, bird feeders, Bird Watching, birding, solar heated bird baths